Treatment of Dry Eye

Punctal Occlusion

Punctum and intra-canalicular occlusion are appropriate for certain patients with aqueous abnormalities, and it is important that a correct diagnosis is made to allow selection of suitable patients for the procedure.

Collagen plugs

These are "temporary" ; that is they dissolve over 4 to 7 days. This allows them to be useful for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. In other words, they might be used to predict the likelihood of benefit.

Plugs are available in a range of diameters (0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, and 0.6mm) and lengths (a "standard" 2mm and a shorter 1.6 mm).

Silicone plugs

These are "permanent" in that they do not dissolve. However they can be removed if necessary. There are two main categories of silicone plug for dry eye: